Wild Zimbabwe: Classic

Spanning four of Zimbabwe’s most iconic safari regions, this journey has been designed to highlight the country’s diversity - from the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls to the wildlife-rich plains of Hwange, the shores of Lake Kariba, and the remote floodplains of Mana Pools. Each stop offers a distinct experience, combining classic game viewing with more immersive activities on foot and by boat.

With exceptional guiding throughout and a carefully considered mix of locations and activities, this itinerary offers a safari that is both varied and authentic. Seamless light aircraft transfers connect each destination, allowing guests to move easily between regions while taking in Zimbabwe’s landscapes from above.

Key Selling Points:

• A diverse Zimbabwe circuit combining Victoria Falls, Hwange, Lake Kariba and Mana Pools
• Exceptional guiding throughout, particularly for walking safaris
• Low-density, uncrowded safari experience
• Well-paced routing with light aircraft connections between all destinations
• Starts and ends in Victoria Falls, with easy access from regional hubs
• Operates May–October, aligning with Zimbabwe’s best game viewing season.

Destination Highlights:

Zambezi National Park (Old Drift Lodge)

• Close to Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
• Combination of river-based activities and game drives

Hwange National Park (The Hide)

• Zimbabwe’s largest national park (~15,000 km²)
• Known for large elephant populations
• Excellent dry-season game viewing around waterholes

Matusadona National Park (Changa)

• Set on Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes
• Combination of land and water-based safari activities
• Very low visitor numbers, so it feels remote and under-the-radar
• Spectacular lake and escarpment scenery
• Matusadona is under management of African Parks who are doing an incredible job of conservation and wildlife recovery (Wild Dog recently reintroduced into this park, which we are very excited about!)

Mana Pools National Park (John’s Camp)

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Known for walking and canoeing safaris
• Seasonal, immersive wilderness experience.

Ideal Client Profile:

Ideal for first-time visitors to Zimbabwe, as well as well-travelled safari guests seeking a more authentic, less commercial experience. Suits couples, families with older children, or small groups of friends who enjoy being active, with a mix of game drives, walking and boat-based activities. Camps are comfortable enough to also allow for a more relaxed pace where desired.

Less Suitable For:

• Families with young children
• Travellers seeking ultra-luxury or very rustic experiences
• Green season travel (November–April)
• Solo travellers

Additional Notes (Agent Insight):

• Strong value driven by a free flights special between The Hide, Changa and John’s Camp
• Can be extended to a 9-night Hwange–Kariba–Mana option for clients with more time, as the free-flights special also has this option.
• Not available from November–April due to Mana Pools seasonal closure (however, alternative itineraries with the same destinations are available during this period.)